On Duty - from the Family Herald

On Duty - from the Family Herald

During the siege of Gibraltar, its Governor, General Elliott, was one day making a tour of inspection, when he came upon a German soldier who, though standing at his post, neither presented arms nor even held his musket, "Do you know me sentinel?" inquired the General, "Why do you neglect your duty?" "I know you well, General, and my duty also, " was the reply; "but within the last few minutes two of the fingers of my right hand have been shot off, and I am unable to hold my musket." "Why don't you go and have them bound up?" "Because in Germany a man is forbidden to quit his post until he is relieved by another." The General instantly dismounted "Now, my friend, said he, give me your musket, and I will relieve you, go and have your wounds dressed." The soldier obeyed, but went first to the nearest guard house where he reported that the General was standing on duty in his place. The man's injury unfitted him for active service, but the story of stolid courage soon reached England, and he was speedily promoted.